Cover Design Award

Create a new design system for paperback books, encapsulating the spirit of Penguin’s founding design principles

Who can enter?

All aspiring designers and illustrators in the UK and Ireland are encouraged to enter the Penguin Cover Design Award, regardless of higher education status.

We’re looking for UK and Irish-based designers and illustrators who haven’t yet had significant experience in a paid creative role – that includes anyone aged 18 or over who is yet to break into the creative industry, students from all subjects and recent graduates.

By significant experience, we mean one year or more (cumulatively) in an in-house or freelancer-paid role, as a creative.

See the Eligibility page and the Terms and Conditions for full details of entry requirements.

Important dates

Opening date for entries – Tuesday, 17 December 2024

Closing date for entries – midnight (GMT) on Thursday, 30 January 2025

Shortlist announcement – Thursday, 13 February 2025

Winners announced – May 2025